All proceeds from opening of new Dunkin’ in New Britain to help sick firefighter

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Credit: GoFundMe.com

All proceeds from opening of new Dunkin’ in New Britain to help sick firefighter

Credit: GoFundMe.com

NEW BRITAIN–Food and fundraising will be rolled into one Thursday morning.

A new Dunkin’ Donuts is opening in the Noble Gas station located at 973 Farmington Ave., and all proceeds from opening day are being donated to a firefighter who needs help.

Lt. Michael Maloney is a 28-year veteran of the New Britain Fire Department, but he has been off duty since December after learning he had a serious lung condition. He was training with firefighters when he got sick with a breathing issue and was taken to the hospital. Tests determined he had nonspecific interstital pneumonia, or NSIP, which is a rare disorder that causes thickening and scarring of lung tissue, which is irreversible.

Treatment has not yet helped improve Lt. Maloney’s condition, so doctors are now considering a double lung transplant.

While Maloney is out of work, he has building medical bills and needs help.

That is why Cary Gagnon, the owner of the Dunkin’ franchise that is opening the new location, decided to help by donating all the proceeds to Maloney.

A ceremonial ribbon cutting will be held with Mayor Erin Stewart at 9:30 a.m., and free samples, games and Dunkin’ Donuts go karts will be offered throughout the day.